Air duct structure of a dishwasher

Abstract

The present invention discloses an air duct structure of a dishwasher, which includes an air inlet channel, an air guiding channel, and an air outlet channel that are connected in sequence and communicate with the accommodation chamber of the dishwasher; the air inlet channel is provided with a fan unit; at least part of the air guiding channel is attached to the outer wall of the accommodation chamber; at least part of the air outlet channel is attached to the top wall of the accommodation chamber and communicates with the accommodation chamber; an anti-backflow structure is provided in the air duct to prevent water or steam from flowing back along the air duct from the accommodation chamber. The present invention provides an air duct structure of a dishwasher. By arranging it to fit the accommodation chamber of the dishwasher, it realizes that air flow quickly enters the accommodation chamber through the air duct with small air volume loss. At the same time, a structure is provided in the air duct to prevent water or steam in the accommodation chamber from flowing back along the air duct, which ensures the service life of the overall device and also prevents the occurrence of mildew; by adopting a cross-flow fan, the air volume is increased, the noise is reduced, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of household appliances, and more specifically, relates to an air duct structure of a dishwasher. Background Art

[0002] With the improvement of living standards, people have higher and higher requirements for the quality of life, and thus have higher and higher requirements for various aspects such as the quality, performance, user-friendliness in use, and intelligence in operation of products. As an excellent product, the dishwasher has gradually entered people's lives. A dishwasher is a device for automatically cleaning tableware such as bowls, chopsticks, plates, dishes, knives, and forks, which greatly facilitates people's lives. After the dishwasher finishes cleaning the tableware, it usually needs to dry the tableware. In existing dishwashers, some do not connect to an external drying system and rely on the heat of the tableware itself to evaporate the water droplets on the tableware to achieve drying of the tableware, but the drying effect is poor; some other dishwashers rely on an external drying system to accelerate the flow of air in the dishwasher, take away the water vapor, and accelerate the drying of the tableware. However, all external drying systems rely on a centrifugal fan to inject dry air into the dishwasher or extract the water vapor in the dishwasher (which will corrode the air machine over a long time) to achieve the flow of air in the dishwasher. However, the flow direction and flow domain of the air entering the dishwasher are both unstable, and the air volume driven by the usually used centrifugal fan is limited. To increase the air volume, the fan speed must be increased, but then the noise will be very large, seriously affecting the user experience.

[0003] Chinese Patent with application number CN201720747062.8 discloses an exhaust system and a dishwasher including the same. The exhaust system includes a fan assembly, an air duct, and an air outlet structure. The outlet of the fan assembly is connected to the air inlet connecting portion of the air duct, and the air outlet structure is slidably connected to the air duct, and the air outlet structure can be at least partially communicated with the air outlet of the air duct.

[0004] Chinese Patent with application number CN201620180046.0 discloses a condensation exhaust duct of a dishwasher, a condensation drying device of a dishwasher, and a dishwasher. Among them, the condensation exhaust duct of the dishwasher is used to be arranged between the inner door and the outer door of the dishwasher, and it includes a duct body. The duct body has a condensation inner cavity, a condensation inlet arranged at the top of the condensation inner cavity, and a condensation outlet arranged at the bottom of the condensation inner cavity. The inner wall of the condensation inner cavity includes a plurality of vertical wall surfaces extending vertically downward and a plurality of inclined wall surfaces extending obliquely downward, and each vertical wall surface and each inclined wall surface are alternately arranged in the vertical direction.

[0005] Although the above-mentioned prior art discloses a technical solution for the exhaust of a dishwasher, there are still problems such as a small air volume and high noise of the drying fan; during the process of the airflow generated by the fan being transported to the accommodation chamber, there is serious loss and low transmission efficiency; water or steam in the inner liner of the dishwasher flows back along the air duct, causing corrosion or mildew of the fan, etc.

[0006] Therefore, it is necessary to improve the deficiencies and defects of the prior art and provide an air duct structure for a dishwasher. By setting an air duct structure that fits the accommodation chamber of the dishwasher and has a changing air flow area in the air duct, the airflow can quickly enter the accommodation chamber through the air duct with small air volume loss. At the same time, a structure is provided in the air duct to prevent water or steam in the accommodation chamber from flowing back along the air duct, ensuring the service life of the overall device and preventing mildew; in addition, by using a cross-flow fan, the air volume is increased, the noise is reduced, and the user experience is improved.

[0007] In view of this, the present invention is specifically proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art and provide an air duct structure for a dishwasher that can overcome or at least partially solve the above problems.

[0009] To solve the above technical problems, the basic concept of the technical solution adopted by the present invention is: an air duct structure for a dishwasher, including

[0010] An air inlet channel, an air guiding channel, and an air outlet channel that are connected in sequence and communicate with the accommodation chamber of the dishwasher;

[0011] The air inlet channel is provided with a fan unit;

[0012] At least part of the air guiding channel is attached to the outer wall of the accommodation chamber;

[0013] At least part of the air outlet channel is attached to the top wall of the accommodation chamber and communicates with the accommodation chamber;

[0014] An anti-backflow structure is provided in the air duct to prevent water or steam from flowing back along the air duct from the accommodation chamber.

[0015] Among them, the air outlet channel includes an air inlet and an air outlet;

[0016] The air inlet communicates with the air guiding channel;

[0017] The air outlet communicates with the accommodation chamber;

[0018] In one embodiment, the air outlet passage forms an air flow basin area that gradually increases from the air inlet towards the air outlet side. The continuous increase in the basin area from the air inlet to the air outlet is conducive to the deceleration of the air flow, facilitating the guide plate and the air outlet passage to guide the flowing air, so that the air flow with a disordered basin becomes an air flow with a stable and uniform basin.

[0019] Further, the anti-backflow structure includes a grille provided at the air outlet of the air outlet passage;

[0020] A plurality of grid pieces are arranged at intervals on the grille;

[0021] In one embodiment, the grid piece can rotate around an axis, thereby adjusting the air outlet angle of the grid piece. The adjustment of different angles meets the customer's needs for washing at different angles. A grille with an adjustable orientation is provided at the air outlet of the air duct. Further, during the adjustment of the grille, it will at least face two different directions. This ensures a uniform air flow direction during the process of the air flow entering the accommodation chamber through the air duct; at the same time, it realizes the primary blocking of the water or steam in the accommodation chamber from entering the air duct, reducing the probability of water or steam flowing back along the air duct.

[0022] In one embodiment, at least two of the grid pieces rotate around the axis at different angles and directions;

[0023] The water or steam in the accommodation chamber is at least partially blocked outside the air outlet passage under the action of the grid pieces with different angles and directions. A grille with an adjustable orientation is provided at the air outlet of the air duct. Further, during the adjustment of the grille, it will at least face two different directions, realizing the primary blocking of the water or steam in the accommodation chamber from entering the air duct, reducing the probability of water or steam flowing back along the air duct.

[0024] Even further, the grille is detachably connected to the air outlet;

[0025] In one embodiment, claw members are provided on the periphery of the grille;

[0026] Card slots are provided at the air outlet corresponding to the claw members;

[0027] The claw members cooperate with the card slots to realize the disassembly of the grille from the air outlet, facilitating the user to clean and maintain the grille.

[0028] In addition, the anti-backflow structure includes a switch portion provided in the air outlet passage that can open or close the air outlet passage. The switch portion realizes the closure of the air outlet passage, ensuring the isolation of the air outlet passage from the dishwasher accommodation chamber, and avoiding the backflow of water or steam during the washing or steam drying process.

[0029] In one embodiment, the switching part opens or closes the air outlet channel at least along the direction in which the air flows in the air outlet channel;

[0030] In one embodiment, the switching part is connected to a driving device;

[0031] After receiving the signal to open or close, the driving device drives the switching part to open or close the air outlet channel;

[0032] In one embodiment, at least the outer edge of the switching part is wrapped with an elastic sealing structure, and the sealing structure ensures the sealing effect of the air outlet channel when the switching part is in the closed state;

[0033] When the switching part is closed, the sealing structure cooperates with the inner wall of the air outlet channel to seal the air outlet channel by the switching part.

[0034] Furthermore, the anti-backflow structure includes a first bottom surface and a second bottom surface provided on the bottom wall of the air outlet channel;

[0035] The air inlet is provided on the first bottom surface;

[0036] The air outlet is provided on the second bottom surface;

[0037] In one embodiment, between the first bottom surface and the second bottom surface, a height difference forming the anti-backflow structure is formed, and the height difference causes the flow trajectory of the water or steam flowing back from the accommodation chamber to change, reducing the fluidity of the water or steam;

[0038] In one embodiment, the distance from the first bottom surface to the top wall of the air outlet channel is less than the distance from the second bottom surface to the top wall of the air outlet channel;

[0039] In one embodiment, the anti-backflow structure further includes a water baffle provided on the first bottom surface;

[0040] The water baffle is arranged perpendicular to the flow direction of the water or steam in the air outlet channel, and the water baffle further blocks the water or steam flowing in the air outlet channel.

[0041] At the same time, the anti-backflow structure further includes a water storage tank provided at the bottom of the air guiding channel, and the water storage tank enables the residual water in the air duct to be concentrated and stored in one place;

[0042] In one embodiment, the inner wall of the air guiding channel is formed with a structure for guiding the water or steam flowing back from the air outlet channel to the water storage tank, so that after the residual steam is liquefied on the inner wall of the air duct, it can be guided to the water storage tank;

[0043] In one embodiment, a drain outlet is provided at the lowest end of the water storage tank, which prevents water or steam in the accommodation chamber from flowing back along the air duct, resulting in long-term residue of washing water in the air duct, causing corrosion and deterioration.

[0044] In one embodiment, the drain outlet is opened and closed by a plug body that can be pulled or rotated.

[0045] In one embodiment, the pulling or rotation of the plug body is achieved manually or electrically.

[0046] Moreover, at the connection between the air inlet channel and the air guiding channel, and between the air guiding channel and the air outlet channel, an arc-shaped transition structure is provided.

[0047] The arc-shaped transition structure forms a tendency to introduce the airflow generated by the fan unit from the air inlet channel into the air guiding channel and the air outlet channel. At the air duct exchange, that is, at the place where the cross-sectional area of the airflow domain in the air duct changes, an arc-shaped transition structure is provided, so that the flowing airflow can change its direction under the guidance of the arc-shaped transition structure, avoiding the hard contact between the airflow direction and the inner wall of the air duct. While passing through quickly, the loss of air volume is greatly reduced.

[0048] Furthermore, the air duct formed by the air guiding channel on the outer wall of the accommodation chamber has a linear structure that facilitates the passage of airflow. The linear air duct structure facilitates the rapid passage of airflow, avoiding the loss of air volume caused by an air duct with too many arcs or corners.

[0049] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the airflow domain in the air guiding channel is smaller than that in the air inlet channel. The area difference between the airflow domains of the two air ducts is conducive to the acceleration of the airflow during the flow process. When the airflow enters the air duct with a smaller cross-sectional area from the air duct with a larger cross-sectional area, it obtains a higher transfer speed and quickly passes through the air duct with a smaller cross-sectional area, thereby improving the transfer efficiency of the airflow in the air duct and avoiding the loss of air volume.

[0050] In one embodiment, the side wall of the air outlet channel is arc-shaped and cooperates with the guide plate to form a structure for adjusting the flowing airflow.

[0051] In one embodiment, at least part of the arc-shaped side wall of the air outlet channel has a C-shaped structure. By setting the shape of the air duct at the top of the accommodation chamber to an arc-shaped structure similar to a "C", it prevents water or steam from flowing back from the air duct during the operation of the dishwasher, causing damage or corrosion to the cross-flow fan.

[0052] In addition, the fan unit is a cross-flow fan disposed in the air inlet passage. By providing a cross-flow fan in the air inlet passage, a large amount of dry air source is provided. At the same time, the cross-flow fan operates with low noise, reducing the impact on the surrounding environment of the dishwasher and providing a more comfortable environment for the user.

[0053] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art:

[0054] 1. By providing an air duct structure that fits the accommodation chamber of the dishwasher and the air flow area in the air duct changes, the air flow can quickly pass through the air duct and enter the accommodation chamber, and the air volume loss is small.

[0055] 2. By providing an anti-backflow structure in the air duct, it is possible to prevent water or steam in the accommodation chamber from flowing back along the air duct, which may cause damage to the fan unit or residual corrosion and mildew in the air duct.

[0056] 3. At the air duct exchange, that is, at the place where the air flow area in the air duct changes, an arc-shaped transition structure is provided, so that the flowing air can change its flow direction under the guidance of the arc-shaped transition structure, avoiding the hard contact between the air flow direction and the inner wall of the air duct. While passing through quickly, the loss of air volume is greatly reduced.

[0057] 4. By changing the air flow area of the air duct and providing two planes with different heights at the air outlet, a multiple superposition and anti-backflow effect on the flowing water or steam is formed, further preventing water or steam in the accommodation chamber from flowing back along the air duct, which may cause damage to the fan unit or residual corrosion and mildew in the air duct.

[0058] 5. A grille with adjustable orientation is provided at the air outlet of the air duct. Further, during the adjustment process, the grille will at least face two different directions, realizing the primary blocking of water or steam in the accommodation chamber from entering the air duct and reducing the probability of water or steam flowing back along the air duct.

[0059] 6. By setting the shape of the air duct at the top of the accommodation chamber as an arc-shaped structure similar to a "C", it is possible to prevent water or steam from flowing back from the air duct during the operation of the dishwasher, causing damage or corrosion to the cross-flow fan.

[0060] 7. By providing a cross-flow fan in the air inlet passage, a large amount of dry air source is provided. At the same time, the cross-flow fan operates with low noise, reducing the impact on the surrounding environment of the dishwasher and providing a more comfortable environment for the user.

[0061] The following further describes in detail the specific embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] The accompanying drawings, as part of the present invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The schematic embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention, but do not constitute an improper limitation of the present invention. Obviously, the accompanying drawings in the following description are only some embodiments, and those of ordinary skill in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without creative efforts.

[0063] In the accompanying drawings:

[0064] Figure 1 is the first schematic diagram of the overall assembly of the air duct structure of the dishwasher of the present invention;

[0065] Figure 2 is the second schematic diagram of the overall assembly of the air duct structure of the dishwasher of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 3 is the first schematic diagram of the air duct structure of the present invention;

[0067] Figure 4 is the second schematic diagram of the air duct structure of the present invention;

[0068] Figure 5 is the schematic diagram of the fan unit of the present invention;

[0069] Figure 6 is the first schematic diagram of the air outlet channel of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 7 is the second schematic diagram of the air outlet channel of the present invention;

[0071] Figure 8 is the third schematic diagram of the air outlet channel of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 9 is the fourth schematic diagram of the air outlet channel of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 10 is the schematic diagram of the exhaust air channel of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 11 is the first schematic diagram of the adjustment component channel of the present invention;

[0075] Figure 12 is the second schematic diagram of the adjustment component channel of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 13 is the schematic diagram of the steam generation component of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 14 is the schematic diagram of the process logic of using the steam generation component of the present invention.

[0078] In the figure: 1, accommodation chamber; 2, air inlet passage; 201, fan unit; 202, heating unit; 3, air extraction passage; 301, water storage tank; 4, air outlet passage; 401, air inlet; 402, air outlet; 403, first bottom surface; 404, second bottom surface; 405, guide plate; 406, grille; 407, grid piece; 408, switch part; 409, water retaining rib; 6, transition structure; 8, exhaust passage; 801, adjustment component; 802, first adjustment unit; 803, second adjustment unit; 804, rotating shaft; 9, steam generating component; 901, first connecting pipe; 902, second connecting pipe; 903, third connecting pipe; 904, power part; 905, heating part; 10, conversion part.

[0079] It should be noted that these drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the scope of the concept of the present invention in any way, but to illustrate the concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. Detailed implementation manners

[0080] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention, but are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0081] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation to the present invention.

[0082] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and defined, the terms "installed", "connected", and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0083] During the daily use of a dishwasher, there are problems such as the drying fan having a small air volume and a large noise; during the process of the airflow generated by the fan being transported to the accommodation chamber 1, there are serious losses and low transmission efficiency; the water or steam in the inner tank of the dishwasher flows back along the air duct, causing corrosion or mildew of the fan; at the same time, the tableware residues are not thoroughly cleaned, and the steam wash can only clean the tableware and can only achieve partial sterilization, unable to achieve large-scale sterilization; at the same time, for tableware with a relatively high viscosity or that has not been cleaned for a long time, high-pressure water cannot effectively clean it, and the steam wash usually has a separate water inlet pipeline, with a cumbersome structure and waste of resources. In response to the above technical problems, the present invention unfolds the following technical solutions.

[0084] Figure 1 and Figure 2 are the first and second schematic diagrams of the overall assembly of the air duct structure of the dishwasher of the present invention, mainly showing the assembly position relationship between the accommodation chamber 1 described in the present invention and the air duct. As can be seen from Figure 1 and Figure 2 it can be seen that the air duct described in the present invention includes an air inlet channel 2, an air guiding channel 3, and an air outlet channel 4. An air fan unit 201 is externally connected to the air inlet channel 2. A conversion member 10 is further included at the setting position of the air fan unit 201 and the air inlet channel 2. A heating unit 202 is installed in the conversion member 10. Of course, during the setting process, according to actual needs, the heating unit 202 and the conversion member 10 can be omitted, which is only one embodiment of the present invention; further, the air inlet channel 2 is arranged at the bottom of the accommodation chamber 1, the air guiding channel 3 is closely attached to the side wall of the accommodation chamber 1, and the air outlet channel 4 is closely attached to the top of the accommodation chamber 1. At the same time, the air outlet channel 4 is arranged as an approximately C-shaped arc structure. After the airflow generated by the air fan unit 201 passes through the air inlet channel 2, the air guiding channel 3, and the air outlet channel 4, it enters the accommodation chamber 1.

[0085] Figures 3 to 5 are the first and second schematic diagrams of the air duct structure and the schematic diagram of the air fan unit 201 of the present invention. As can be seen from Figures 3 to 5As can be seen, the air duct includes an air inlet channel 2, an air guiding channel 3, and an air outlet channel 4. At the same time, the fan unit 201 and the conversion member 10 are connected to the air inlet channel 2. A heating unit 202 is provided inside the conversion member 10. When the conversion member 10 is connected to the air inlet channel 2, through the injection of sealant, complete sealing and fixation of the two are achieved. The connection between the swivel member and the fan unit 201 is realized through a detachable threaded structure. In addition, during the conversion of the air duct, an arc-shaped transition structure 6 is provided. At the change of the cross-sectional area of the air duct, the transition structure 6 is set so that the flowing air can be guided by the arc-shaped transition structure 6 to change the flow direction, avoiding the hard contact between the air flow direction and the inner wall of the air duct. While passing quickly, the loss of air volume is greatly reduced. And, at the air guiding channel 3, a water storage tank 301 is also provided. The inner wall of the air guiding channel 3 forms a structure for guiding the water or steam flowing back from the air outlet channel 4 to the water storage tank 301. The structure of the inner wall of the air guiding channel 3 can be understood as a structure inclined towards the water storage tank 301. The steam adhering to the inner wall of the air guiding channel 3 converges into the water storage tank 301 under the action of the inclined inner wall.

[0086] Figures 6 to 9 Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4 are schematic views of the first, second, third, and fourth of the air outlet channel 4 of the present invention. As can be seen from the drawings, the air outlet channel 4 is an approximately C-shaped arc structure. An air inlet 401 communicating with the air guiding channel 3 and an air outlet 402 communicating with the accommodation chamber 1 are provided inside the air outlet channel 4. A water blocking rib 409, a guiding plate 405, and a first bottom surface 403 and a second bottom surface 404 with a height difference are also provided inside the air outlet channel 4. Among them, the guiding plate 405 is also an arc structure and has the same arc as the arc-shaped side wall of the air outlet channel 4. While guiding the air flow inside the air outlet channel 4, it also prevents the backflow of water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1. The water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 is effectively blocked outside the drainage air duct under the action of the arc-shaped side wall of the air outlet channel 4, the guiding plate 405, the height difference between the first bottom surface 403 and the second bottom surface 404, and the water blocking rib 409, avoiding the water or steam flowing along the drainage air duct to the fan unit 201 and causing damage to the fan unit 201. In addition, a grille 406 is provided at the air outlet 402 of the air outlet channel 4; a number of grid pieces 407 are provided at intervals on the grille 406; further, the grid pieces 407 can rotate around an axis, and at least two of the grid pieces 407 rotate at different angles and directions around the axis, thereby adjusting the air outlet angle of the grid pieces 407; furthermore, the grille 406 and the air outlet 402 are detachably connected. Claws are provided on the periphery of the grille 406, and clamping grooves are provided on the air outlet 402 corresponding to the claws; the claws and the clamping grooves cooperate to realize the disassembly of the grille 406 and the air outlet 402, facilitating the cleaning and maintenance of the grille 406 by the user.

[0087] Figures 10 to 12FIG. 0 is a schematic diagram of the exhaust air passage 8 of the present invention and the first and second schematic diagrams of the passage of the adjusting assembly 801. As can be seen from the figure, the present invention provides an adjusting assembly 801 on the exhaust air passage 8 that can connect or disconnect the exhaust air passage 8. By providing an adjusting mechanism on the exhaust air passage 8 that can adjust the size of the air outlet, the size of the area of the air outlet 402 can be adjusted, that is, the temperature during the dishwashing process of the dishwasher can be ensured, energy can be saved, and at the same time, the risk of water being discharged from the exhaust air duct to the outside during washing can be reduced; during the drying stage, the air outlet can be opened through the mechanism to accelerate the discharge of air and achieve rapid drying; at the same time, the adjusting assembly 801 of the present invention adopts two technical solutions, which can be horizontally moved and flipped, and the shape of the exhaust air passage 8 can be varied in multiple ways. Although in Figure 11 and Figure 12 it is only a rectangular exhaust air passage 8, it can be adjusted according to the actual situation and needs. The operating model of the adjusting mechanism and the shape of the exhaust air passage 8 are set to enhance the adaptability of the adjusting mechanism and the adaptability to different dishwasher models and different-shaped exhaust air passages 8. At the same time, through the adjustment of the exhaust air passage 8 by the adjusting mechanism, the requirements for exhaust air at different gears and different drying conditions are met.

[0088] Figure 13 FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the steam generating assembly 9 of the present invention. As can be seen from the figure, the accommodation chamber 1 is connected to the steam generating assembly 9. By providing a steam generating assembly 9 connected to the accommodation chamber 1, steam is generated using the water in the accommodation chamber 1, and the steam is used to clean the tableware, and the problem of separately introducing water is avoided; by converting the water in the accommodation chamber 1 into high-temperature water vapor, the temperature of the chamber can be rapidly increased within a short period of time, effectively playing the role of sterilization and removing stains on the tableware.

[0089] Figure 14 FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of the logic of the usage process of the steam generating assembly 9 of the present invention. During the pre-washing process of step S2 described in Figure 14 , before performing the pre-washing operation, a steam washing operation is first performed on the dishwasher. The steam used in the steam washing operation comes from the steam generating assembly 9 connected to the accommodation chamber 1. During the pre-washing before the dishwasher is cleaned, a steam generator assembly connected to the accommodation chamber 1 is used to generate high-temperature water vapor and deliver it into the accommodation chamber 1 of the dishwasher, which can quickly increase the temperature in the accommodation chamber 1. The humidity and high temperature of the water vapor can effectively soften the residues with relatively high viscosity or large hardness, and then the stubborn stains on the tableware can be easily removed using high-pressure water.

[0090] Based on the above Figures 1 to 14 description, when the technical solution of the present invention is applied to a specific embodiment, it is as follows.

[0091] Embodiment 1

[0092] AsFigure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in Figure 2 , a duct structure of a dishwasher according to this embodiment includes a duct communicating with the accommodation chamber 1 of the dishwasher; a fan unit 201, a heating unit 202, a flow guiding structure and a backflow prevention structure are arranged in the duct; the heating unit 202 is used to heat the air flow generated by the fan unit 201 to form dry hot air flowing into the accommodation chamber 1 through the air inlet channel 2; the flow guiding structure guides the air flow with disordered flow direction flowing through the duct into an air flow with uniform flow direction; the backflow prevention structure prevents water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 from flowing back into the duct.

[0093] By providing a duct structure that fits the accommodation chamber 1 of the dishwasher and has a changing air flow area in the duct, the present invention enables the air flow to quickly pass through the duct and enter the accommodation chamber 1 with small air volume loss; by providing a flow guiding structure in the duct, the disordered air flow flowing through the duct is guided, and the air flow area after guiding is stable and uniform. After passing through the gratings 406 with different angles at the air outlet 402 of the duct, it is evenly dispersed into the accommodation chamber 1; by providing a backflow prevention structure in the duct, it is avoided that water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 flows back along the duct, causing damage to the fan unit 201, or remaining in the duct and causing corrosion and mildew.

[0094] Embodiment Two

[0095] As Figures 3 to 5 shown in Figures 3 to 5 , this embodiment is a further limitation of the above Embodiment One. In this embodiment, the duct includes an air inlet channel 2, an air guiding channel 3 and an air outlet channel 4 that are connected in sequence and communicate with the accommodation chamber 1; the air inlet channel 2 is provided with a fan unit 201 and a heating unit 202; the air guiding channel 3 is at least partially attached to the outer wall of the accommodation chamber 1; the air outlet channel 4 is at least partially attached to the top wall of the accommodation chamber 1 and at least communicates with the accommodation chamber 1; further, the heating unit 202 is arranged in the area formed inside the air inlet channel 2 in the air inlet direction of the fan unit 201. By adding the heating unit 202 in the duct, the air flow flowing through the duct is heated to quickly dry the internal environment of the washing machine.

[0096] Embodiment Three

[0097] As Figures 3 to 5As shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2. The fan unit 201 in this embodiment is a cross-flow fan disposed in the air inlet passage 2. By providing a cross-flow fan in the air inlet passage 2, a large amount of dry air source is provided. At the same time, the cross-flow fan operates with low noise, reducing the impact on the environment around the dishwasher and providing a more comfortable environment for the user. Further, the heating unit 202 is a PTC heater disposed in the air inlet passage 2. By adding a PTC heater in the air duct, the air flow passing through the air duct is heated to achieve rapid drying of the internal environment of the washing machine. At the same time, by setting the installation position of the PTC heater, the PTC heating area is increased, the air resistance can be reduced, and the air volume loss of the air passing through the PTC can be reduced.

[0098] Embodiment 4

[0099] As Figures 3 to 5 shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 3. At the connection between the air inlet passage 2 and the air guiding passage 3, and between the air guiding passage 3 and the air outlet passage 4, an arc-shaped transition structure 6 is provided. The arc-shaped transition structure 6 forms a trend to introduce the air flow generated by the fan unit 201 from the air inlet passage 2 into the air guiding passage 3 and the air outlet passage 4. At the air duct exchange, that is, at the place where the cross-sectional area of the air flow domain in the air duct changes, an arc-shaped transition structure 6 is provided, so that the flowing air flow can be guided by the arc-shaped transition structure 6 to change its flow direction, avoiding the hard contact between the air flow direction and the inner wall of the air duct. While passing through quickly, the air volume loss is greatly reduced. The air duct formed by the air guiding passage 3 on the outer wall of the accommodation chamber 1 is in a straight-line structure that is convenient for the air flow to pass through. The straight-line air duct structure is convenient for the air flow to pass through quickly, avoiding the air volume loss caused by an air duct with too many arcs or corners. The cross-sectional area of the air flow domain in the air guiding passage 3 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the air flow domain in the air inlet passage 2. The area difference between the two air duct air flow domains is beneficial to the acceleration of the air flow during the flowing process. When the air flow enters the air duct with a small cross-sectional area from the air duct with a large cross-sectional area, a higher transfer speed is obtained, and it quickly passes through the air duct with a small cross-sectional area, thereby improving the transfer efficiency of the air flow in the air duct and avoiding the loss of air volume.

[0100] Embodiment 5

[0101] As Figures 6 to 9As shown in the figure, this embodiment further limits the above-mentioned Embodiment 1 to Embodiment 4. In this embodiment, the air outlet passage 4 includes an air inlet 401 and an air outlet 402; the air inlet 401 is communicated with the air guiding passage 3; the air outlet 402 is communicated with the accommodation chamber 1. The airflow generated by the fan unit 201 enters the air outlet passage 4 from the air inlet 401 after passing through the air inlet passage 2 and the air guiding passage 3. Under the guiding action of the guiding plate 405 and other guiding structures in the air outlet passage 4, the airflow with disordered flow direction is changed into the airflow with uniform flow direction, and finally enters the accommodation chamber 1 from the air outlet 402.

[0102] Embodiment Six

[0103] As Figures 6 to 9 shown in the figure, this embodiment further limits the above-mentioned Embodiment 5. The air outlet passage 4 forms a gradually increasing airflow basin area from the air inlet 401 to the air outlet 402 side. As the basin area from the air inlet 401 to the air outlet 402 continuously increases, when the airflow passes through this area, the fast flow in the drainage passage becomes slow as the basin area expands, which is beneficial to the deceleration of the airflow and facilitates the guiding of the airflow passing through by the guiding plate 405 and the air outlet passage 4, so that the airflow with disordered basin becomes the airflow with stable and uniform basin.

[0104] Embodiment Seven

[0105] As Figures 6 to 9 shown in the figure, this embodiment further limits the above-mentioned Embodiment 5 or Embodiment 6. On the bottom wall of the air outlet passage 4, a first bottom surface 403 and a second bottom surface 404 are provided; the air inlet 401 is provided on the first bottom surface 403; the air outlet 402 is provided on the second bottom surface 404; a height difference is formed between the first bottom surface 403 and the second bottom surface 404, and the distance from the first bottom surface 403 to the top wall of the air outlet passage 4 is less than the distance from the second bottom surface 404 to the top wall of the air outlet passage 4; the height difference enables the airflow flowing in the air guiding passage 3 to obtain a tendency to flow into the accommodation chamber 1 when flowing through the air outlet passage 4, improving the efficiency of the airflow and avoiding the loss of the airflow in the air duct; at the same time, when the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 flows back along the air outlet passage 4, the height difference can also play a role in changing the flow direction of the water or steam, thereby playing a blocking role.

[0106] Embodiment Eight

[0107] As Figures 6 to 9As shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned Embodiment 7. In this embodiment, when the airflow generated by the fan unit 201 flows in the air outlet passage 4 from the side of the air inlet 401 to the side of the air outlet 402, the height difference between the first bottom surface 403 and the second bottom surface 404 forms the diversion structure. The height difference causes the flowing airflow to form a downward flow trend, enhancing the trend of the airflow flowing from the top of the accommodation chamber 1 into the accommodation chamber 1; further, when the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 flows in the air outlet passage 4 from the side of the air outlet 402 to the side of the air inlet 401, the height difference between the first bottom surface 403 and the second bottom surface 404 forms the anti-backflow structure. The height difference causes the flow trajectory of the water or steam flowing back from the accommodation chamber 1 to change, reducing the fluidity of the water or steam.

[0108] By changing the airflow domain of the air duct and setting two planes with different heights at the air outlet 402, a multiple superposition of the effect of accelerating the flowing airflow is formed, ensuring that the airflow is quickly and evenly guided in the air duct and accelerated into the accommodation chamber 1. At the same time, a multiple superposition and anti-backflow effect on the flowing water or steam is formed, further avoiding the situation that the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 flows back along the air duct, causing damage to the cross-flow fan or remaining in the air duct and causing corrosion and mildew.

[0109] Embodiment Nine

[0110] As Figures 6 to 9 shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 8. In this embodiment, the side wall of the air outlet passage 4 is arranged in an arc shape and cooperates with the guide plate 405 to form a structure for adjusting the flowing airflow; at least part of the arc-shaped side wall of the air outlet passage 4 is in a C-shaped structure. By setting the shape of the air duct at the top of the accommodation chamber 1 as an arc-shaped structure similar to a "C", it is avoided that during the operation of the dishwasher, water or steam flows back from the air duct, causing damage or corrosion to the cross-flow fan.

[0111] Embodiment Ten

[0112] As Figures 6 to 9As shown in the figure, this embodiment further defines any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 9. The diversion structure in this embodiment includes a plurality of guide plates 405 spaced apart on the bottom wall of the air outlet passage 4. The guide plates 405 divert the disordered air flow in the flowing basin into a stable and uniform air flow in the basin. The guide plates 405 divert the air flow flowing through the air outlet passage 4 from the air inlet 401 to the air outlet 402. Further, the guide plates 405 are arranged in an arc shape, forming a trend of air flow flowing from the air inlet 401 to the air outlet 402. Furthermore, the radian of the guide plates 405 is the same as the radian of the side wall of the air outlet passage 4. The guide plates 405 with the same radian as the side wall of the air duct enhance the guiding effect on the flowing air flow in the air duct, so that the air flow passes through the guide plates 405 and changes from a disordered air flow to a uniformly flowing air flow. At least a part of the guide plates 405 is arranged on the first bottom surface 403.

[0113] Embodiment 11

[0114] As Figures 6 to 9 shown in the figure, this embodiment further defines any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 10. In the air duct structure of a dishwasher in this embodiment, the anti-backflow structure includes a water retaining rib 409 arranged on the first bottom surface 403. The water retaining rib 409 is arranged perpendicular to the flowing direction of water or steam in the air outlet passage 4, and the water retaining rib 409 further blocks the water or steam flowing in the air outlet passage 4.

[0115] From Figures 6 to 9 it can be seen that at the air outlet 402 of the air outlet passage 4, there is also a grille 406, and a plurality of grille vanes 407 are spaced apart on the grille 406. The grille vanes 407 can rotate around an axis, and at least two of the grille vanes 407 rotate around the axis at different angles and directions, thereby adjusting the air outlet angle of the grille vanes 407.

[0116] When the air flow generated by the fan unit 201 flows in the air outlet passage 4 from the side of the air inlet 401 to the side of the air outlet 402, the air flow in the air outlet passage 4 enters the accommodation chamber 1 at different angles and directions under the guidance of at least two grille vanes 407 with different angles and directions. The adjustment of different angles meets the customer's needs for washing at different angles. At the air outlet 402 of the air duct, a grille 406 with adjustable orientation is provided. Further, during the adjustment of the grille 406, it will at least face two different directions, which ensures the effect of uniform air flow when the air flow enters the accommodation chamber 1 through the air duct.

[0117] When the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 flows in the air outlet passage 4 from the side of the air outlet 402 towards the side of the air inlet 401, at least part of the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 is blocked outside the air outlet passage 4 under the action of the grid pieces 407 with different angles and directions. A grille 406 with adjustable orientation is provided at the air outlet 402 of the air duct. Further, during the adjustment process of the grille 406, it will at least face two different directions, achieving the primary blocking of the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 from entering the air duct and reducing the probability of the water or steam flowing back along the air duct.

[0118] Embodiment Twelve

[0119] As Figures 3 to 9 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 11. For the air duct structure of a dishwasher in this embodiment, the grille 406 and the air outlet 402 are detachably connected; clamping claws are provided on the periphery of the grille 406; clamping grooves are provided at the air outlet 402 corresponding to the clamping claws; the clamping claws cooperate with the clamping grooves to realize the disassembly of the grille 406 and the air outlet 402, facilitating the cleaning and maintenance of the grille 406 by the user.

[0120] Specifically, during the assembly of the air duct, a plurality of clamping claws are evenly distributed around the grille 406. The air outlet passage 4 and the accommodation chamber 1 are fixed by the cooperation of the clamping claws and the clamping grooves provided corresponding to the clamping claws around the accommodation chamber 1. The arc surface of the air outlet passage 4 fits with the accommodation chamber 1, and the air inlet passage 2 fits with the outer side of the bottom of the accommodation chamber 1.

[0121] Embodiment Thirteen

[0122] As Figures 3 to 9 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 12. The anti-backflow structure in this embodiment includes a switch part 408 provided in the air outlet passage 4 that can open or close the air outlet passage 4; the switch part 408 opens or closes the air outlet passage 4 at least along the direction of the airflow flowing in the air outlet passage 4; further, the switch part 408 is connected to a driving device; after receiving the signal to open or close, the driving device drives the switch part 408 to realize the opening or closing of the air outlet passage 4; furthermore, at least the outer edge of the switch part 408 is wrapped with an elastic sealing structure, and the sealing structure ensures the sealing effect of the air outlet passage 4 when the switch part 408 is in the closed state; when the switch part 408 is closed, the sealing structure cooperates with the inner wall of the air outlet passage 4 to realize the sealing of the air outlet passage 4 by the switch part 408.

[0123] Embodiment Fourteen

[0124] AsFigure 4 As shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-described Embodiments 1 to 13. The anti-backflow structure in this embodiment further includes a water storage tank 301 provided at the bottom of the air guiding channel 3. The water storage tank 301 enables the residual water in the air duct to be collected in one place. A structure for guiding the water or steam flowing back from the air outlet channel 4 to the water storage tank 301 is formed on the inner wall of the air guiding channel 3, so that after the residual steam liquefies on the inner wall of the air duct, it can be guided into the water storage tank 301. A drain port is provided at the lowest end of the water storage tank 301, which avoids the corrosion and deterioration caused by the long-term residue of the washing water in the air duct after the water or steam in the accommodation chamber 1 flows back along the air duct. The opening and closing of the drain port is realized by a plug body that can be pulled or rotated. The pulling or rotation of the plug body is realized manually or electrically.

[0125] Embodiment 15

[0126] As Figures 10 to 12 shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-described Embodiments 1 to 14. The air duct structure of a dishwasher in this embodiment further includes an exhaust air duct 8 communicated with the accommodation chamber 1. The exhaust air duct 8 is used to discharge the gas in the accommodation chamber 1 out of the dishwasher. Further, an adjustment assembly 801 is provided in the exhaust air duct 8 for realizing the connection or disconnection between the exhaust air duct 8 and the accommodation chamber 1. An adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the air outlet is provided in the exhaust air duct 8 to realize the adjustable size of the area of the air outlet 402, that is, it can ensure the temperature during the washing of the dishwasher, save energy, and reduce the risk of water being discharged from the exhaust air duct to the outside during washing. In the drying stage, the air outlet can be opened through the mechanism to accelerate the discharge of air and quickly dry, and avoid the loss of heat from the accommodation chamber 1.

[0127] Embodiment 16

[0128] As Figures 10 to 12As shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned fifteenth embodiment. The adjustment component 801 in this embodiment includes a first adjustment unit 802 and a second adjustment unit 803; the first adjustment unit 802 is arranged in the exhaust air duct 8 to connect or disconnect the exhaust air duct 8 from the accommodation chamber 1; the second adjustment unit 803 is connected to the first adjustment unit 802 to provide power for the first adjustment unit 802 to realize the connection or disconnection of the exhaust air duct 8 from the accommodation chamber 1. An adjustment mechanism capable of adjusting the size of the air outlet is arranged in the exhaust air duct 8 to realize the adjustable size of the area of the air outlet 402, that is, it can ensure the temperature during the dishwashing of the dishwasher, save energy, and reduce the risk of water being discharged from the exhaust air duct to the outside during washing; in the drying stage, the air outlet can be opened through the mechanism to accelerate the discharge of air and quickly dry, and avoid the loss of heat from the accommodation chamber 1.

[0129] Embodiment Seventeen

[0130] As Figures 10 to 12 shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned fifteenth or sixteenth embodiment. A slideway is arranged in the exhaust air duct 8 in this embodiment; the first adjustment unit 802 is arranged in the slideway and moves linearly under the action of the second adjustment unit 803, so as to realize the connection or disconnection of the exhaust air duct 8 from the accommodation chamber 1; further, the area of the exhaust air duct 8 blocked by the first adjustment unit 802 is S1; the area of the exhaust air duct 8 is S2; the ratio of S1 to S2 is 0 < S1 / S2 ≤ 1.

[0131] The operation model of the adjustment mechanism and the shape of the exhaust air duct 8 are set, which enhances the adaptability of the adjustment mechanism and the adaptability to different dishwasher models and exhaust air ducts 8 with different shapes. At the same time, through the adjustment of the exhaust air duct 8 by the adjustment mechanism, the requirements for exhaust at different gears and different drying conditions are met.

[0132] Embodiment Eighteen

[0133] As Figures 10 to 12 shown in the figure, this embodiment is a further limitation of the above-mentioned fifteenth or sixteenth embodiment. The first adjustment unit 802 and the second adjustment unit 803 are connected by a rotating shaft 804 in this embodiment; the first adjustment unit 802 rotates in the exhaust air duct 8 under the action of the second adjustment unit 803, so as to realize the connection or disconnection of the exhaust air duct 8 from the accommodation chamber 1; the rotating shaft 804 is arranged at a position close to one end face of the first adjustment unit 802 or at the rotation center; the area of the exhaust air duct 8 blocked by the first adjustment unit 802 is S1; the area of the exhaust air duct 8 is S2; the ratio of S1 to S2 is 0 < S1 / S2 ≤ 1.

[0134] The operating model of the adjustment mechanism and the shape of the exhaust air duct 8 are set, enhancing the adaptability of the adjustment mechanism and the adaptability to different dishwasher models and different-shaped exhaust air ducts 8. At the same time, through the adjustment of the exhaust air duct 8 by the adjustment mechanism, the requirements for exhaust at different gears and different drying conditions are met.

[0135] Example XIX

[0136] As Figure 13 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the above-mentioned Embodiments 1 to 18. The air duct structure of a dishwasher described in this embodiment further includes a steam generation assembly 9 communicated with the accommodation chamber 1. The steam generation assembly 9 uses the water in the accommodation chamber 1 to generate steam and transports it back into the accommodation chamber 1, thereby realizing steam washing of the articles to be washed.

[0137] Among them, the steam generation assembly 9 includes a first connecting pipe 901, a second connecting pipe 902, a third connecting pipe 903, a power part 904, and a heating part 905; the first connecting pipe 901 is communicated with the power part 904; the third connecting pipe 903 is communicated with the heating part 905; the first connecting pipe 901 and the third connecting pipe 903 are respectively communicated with the accommodation chamber 1; the second connecting pipe 902 communicates the power part 904 and the heating part 905. By setting the steam generation assembly 9 communicated with the accommodation chamber 1 in the present invention, steam is generated by using the water in the accommodation chamber 1, and the steam is used to clean the tableware, and the problem of separately introducing water is avoided.

[0138] Furthermore, the water in the accommodation chamber 1, under the action of the power part 904, enters the power part 904 after passing through the first connecting pipe 901; the water is pressurized in the power part 904 and then enters the heating part 905 through the second connecting pipe 902, and under the action of the heating part 905, it is heated to boiling to form high-temperature water vapor; the high-temperature water vapor enters the accommodation chamber 1 through the third connecting pipe 903, realizing steam washing of the articles to be washed in the accommodation chamber 1. By converting the water in the accommodation chamber 1 into high-temperature water vapor, the chamber temperature is rapidly increased within a short time, effectively playing the role of sterilization and removing stains on the tableware.

[0139] Even further, the temperature of the high-temperature water vapor is 100 °C; the first connecting pipe 901 and the third connecting pipe 903 are flexible hoses; among them, the third connecting pipe 903 is a high-temperature-resistant flexible hose.

[0140] Example XX

[0141] As Figure 13As shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the nineteenth embodiment above. The air duct structure of a dishwasher in this embodiment further includes a sink configured to hold items to be washed; the space in the sink for holding items to be washed forms the accommodation chamber 1.

[0142] Embodiment Twenty - One

[0143] As Figure 14 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the nineteenth or twentieth embodiment above. The method of using the steam generation assembly 9 in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0144] S1. Startup process: Turn on the startup power supply.

[0145] S2. Pre - wash process: Perform a water inlet operation on the dishwasher and conduct a pre - wash. After the items to be washed in the accommodation chamber 11 are pre - washed, perform a drainage operation.

[0146] S3. Rinsing process: Perform a water inlet operation on the dishwasher and conduct a rinse. After the items to be washed in the accommodation chamber 11 are rinsed, perform a drainage operation.

[0147] S4. Drying process: Perform a drying operation on the dishwasher.

[0148] Embodiment Twenty - Two

[0149] As Figure 14 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the twenty - first embodiment above. In the pre - wash process of step S2 of the method of using the steam generation assembly 9 in this embodiment, before performing the pre - wash operation, first perform a steam wash operation on the dishwasher; the steam used in the steam wash operation comes from the steam generation assembly 9 communicated with the accommodation chamber 1.

[0150] Embodiment Twenty - Three

[0151] As Figure 14 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of the twenty - first or twenty - second embodiment above. In the rinsing process of step S3 of the method of using the steam generation assembly 9 in this embodiment, perform at least two water inlet, rinse, and drainage operations.

[0152] Embodiment Twenty - Four

[0153] As Figure 14 shown, this embodiment is a further limitation of any one of the twenty - first to twenty - third embodiments above. In the startup process of step S1 of the method of using the steam generation assembly 9 in this embodiment, after turning on the startup power supply, perform a drainage operation on the dishwasher to drain the remaining water in the accommodation chamber 1.

[0154] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. It will be understood, however, that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0155] Similarly, it should be understood that in order to streamline this disclosure and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, in the foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. However, the disclosed methods should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, the inventive aspects lie in less than all of the features of the single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0156] Except as otherwise noted, all features disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and all processes or units of any method or apparatus so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, provided that at least some of such features and / or processes or units are not mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification (including the accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0157] In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that although some embodiments described herein include some features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention and form different embodiments. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0158] It should be noted that the above embodiments are illustrative of the invention and not restrictive thereof, and that alternative embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in a claim. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. In a unit claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The use of the words first, second, and third, etc. does not denote any order. These words may be interpreted as names.

[0159] The above are only the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and there is no restriction on the present invention in any form. Although the present invention has been disclosed as above with the preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art of this patent can make some changes or modifications to equivalent embodiments with equivalent changes by using the technical content prompted above within the scope of the technical solution of the present invention. However, as long as it does not depart from the content of the technical solution of the present invention, any simple modification, equivalent change and modification made to the above embodiments according to the technical essence of the present invention still fall within the scope of the technical solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. An air duct structure of a dishwasher, characterized in that: including an air inlet channel (2), an air guiding channel (3) and an air outlet channel (4) which are communicated with the accommodating chamber (1) of the dishwasher and are connected in sequence; the air inlet channel (2) is provided with a fan unit (201); at least part of the air guiding channel (3) is attached to the outer wall of the accommodating chamber (1); the air outlet channel (4) includes an air inlet (401) and an air outlet (402), at least part of which is attached to the top wall of the accommodating chamber (1) and is communicated with the accommodating chamber (1); an anti-backflow structure is arranged in the air duct to prevent water or steam from flowing back along the air duct from the accommodating chamber (1); the anti-backflow structure includes a grille (406) arranged at the air outlet (402) of the air outlet channel (4); a plurality of grille blades (407) are arranged at intervals on the grille (406); the grille blades (407) can rotate around an axis, and the rotation angles and directions of at least two of the grille blades (407) around the axis are different; at least part of the water or steam in the accommodating chamber (1) is blocked outside the air outlet channel (4) under the action of the grille blades (407) with different angles and directions; a guiding plate (405) is arranged in the air outlet channel (4) to guide the air flow in the air outlet channel (4).

2. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein: the air inlet (401) is communicated with the air guiding channel (3); the air outlet (402) is communicated with the accommodating chamber (1).

3. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein: the air outlet channel (4) forms an air flow area that gradually increases from the air inlet (401) to the air outlet (402) side.

4. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein: the grille (406) and the air outlet (402) are detachably connected.

5. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 4, wherein: claw fingers are arranged on the periphery of the grille (406); a clamping groove is arranged at the air outlet (402) corresponding to the claw fingers; the claw fingers are matched with the clamping groove to realize the disassembly of the grille (406) and the air outlet (402).

6. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein: the anti-backflow structure includes a switch part (408) arranged in the air outlet channel (4) and capable of opening or closing the air outlet channel (4).

7. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 6, wherein: the switch part (408) opens or closes the air outlet channel (4) at least along the direction of the air flow in the air outlet channel (4).

8. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 7, wherein: the switch part (408) is connected with a driving device; after receiving the signal of opening or closing, the driving device drives the switch part (408) to realize the opening or closing of the air outlet channel (4).

9. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 8, characterized in that: At least the outer edge of the switch part (408) is wrapped with an elastic sealing structure; When the switch part (408) is closed, the sealing structure cooperates with the inner wall of the air outlet passage (4) to seal the air outlet passage (4) by the switch part (408).

10. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 2, characterized in that: The anti-backflow structure includes a first bottom surface (403) and a second bottom surface (404) provided on the bottom wall of the air outlet passage (4); The air inlet (401) is provided on the first bottom surface (403); The air outlet (402) is provided on the second bottom surface (404).

11. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 10, characterized in that: A height difference forming the anti-backflow structure is provided between the first bottom surface (403) and the second bottom surface (404).

12. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 11, characterized in that: The distance from the first bottom surface (403) to the top wall of the air outlet passage (4) is less than the distance from the second bottom surface (404) to the top wall of the air outlet passage (4).

13. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 12, characterized in that: The anti-backflow structure further includes a water retaining rib (409) provided on the first bottom surface (403); The water retaining rib (409) is arranged perpendicular to the flow direction of water or steam in the air outlet passage (4).

14. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 1, characterized in that: The anti-backflow structure further includes a water storage tank (301) provided at the bottom of the air guiding passage (3).

15. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 14, characterized in that: A structure for guiding the water or steam flowing back from the air outlet passage (4) to the water storage tank (301) is formed on the inner wall of the air guiding passage (3).

16. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 15, characterized in that: A drain port is provided at the lowest end of the water storage tank (301).

17. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 16, characterized in that: The drain port is opened and closed by a plug body that is pulled or rotated.

18. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 17, characterized in that: The pulling or rotation of the plug body is realized manually or electrically.

19. The air duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 14, characterized in that: Arc-shaped transition structures (6) are provided at the joints of the air inlet passage (2) and the air guiding passage (3), and the air guiding passage (3) and the air outlet passage (4); The arc-shaped transition structure (6) forms a tendency to introduce the air flow generated by the fan unit (201) from the air inlet passage (2) into the air guiding passage (3) and the air outlet passage (4).

20. A duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 19, characterized in that: The air duct formed by the air induction channel (3) on the outer wall of the accommodation chamber (1) is a linear structure facilitating the passage of air flow.

21. A duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 20, characterized in that: The cross-sectional area of the air flow domain in the air induction channel (3) is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the air flow domain in the air inlet channel (2).

22. A duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 21, characterized in that: The side wall of the air outlet channel (4) is arranged in an arc shape.

23. A duct structure of a dishwasher according to claim 22, characterized in that: At least part of the arc-shaped side wall of the air outlet channel (4) is in a C-shaped structure.

24. A duct structure of a dishwasher according to any one of claims 1-23, characterized in that: The fan unit (201) is a cross-flow fan arranged in the air inlet channel (2).

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